“What is new in the world? Nothing. What is old in the world? Nothing. Everything has always been and will always be.”
- November 23, 1926 – April 24, 2011
- Indian
- Spiritual Leader, Guru, Philanthropist, Founder of the Sathya Sai Organization
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Quote
“What is new in the world? Nothing. What is old in the world? Nothing. Everything has always been and will always be.”
Explanation
In this quote, Sathya Sai Baba presents a timeless philosophical insight rooted in the cyclical nature of existence and the eternal continuity of truth. The rhetorical structure—questioning what is “new” or “old”—leads to the profound conclusion that the essence of reality is unchanging, even though forms and appearances may shift. It reflects the Vedantic worldview in which the underlying reality (Brahman) is eternal, while the world of names and forms (Maya) is transient and illusory.
By stating “everything has always been and will always be,” Sai Baba emphasizes that truth, consciousness, and divinity are beyond time. Historical events, innovations, and human experiences may seem novel, but they are all manifestations of the same eternal principles. This perspective encourages detachment from the illusion of constant change and invites us to recognize the unchanging spiritual core behind all phenomena.
In a modern context, this message can help us maintain equanimity amid rapid technological and societal change. For instance, while digital revolutions may appear groundbreaking, the human longing for connection, meaning, and truth remains the same. Sai Baba’s words remind us that by focusing on eternal values like love, truth, and self-awareness, we align ourselves with what truly endures, rather than being swept away by superficial novelty.
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